IPC Programs
Projects & Resources
Biocontrol: Insect Projects
Biological Control of Cotton Aphid
The cotton aphid is ubiquitous in the San Joaquin Valley, and because of its broad host range, this insect can be a serious pest in cotton, citrus, and melons. To more effectively manage the aphid, a cooperative project was initiated in 1996 to construct a natural enemy complex using natural enemies not currently found in California. This new complex would complement the existing natural enemy complex found in the area. To date, three species of insect parasites and one species of fungus have been or are currently being tested. The results suggest that at least two of the species of insect parasites will have a role to play in the new natural enemy complex. Research is continuing on the fungus, and new species of natural enemies will be tested as they become available.
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